Frankly Speaking: Does Riyadh prefer Trump or Harris?

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Updated 04 November 2024
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Frankly Speaking: Does Riyadh prefer Trump or Harris?

  • Saudi commentator Ali Shihabi says Kingdom does not have a favorite but is looking to work closely with whichever candidate wins to help resolve the Middle East conflict

DUBAI: Saudi Arabia does not have a favorite in the US presidential race, and would enjoy strong relations with either Republican Donald Trump or Democrat Kamala Harris, Saudi political commentator Ali Shihabi has said.

According to him, the Kingdom’s priority is to use its relationship with Washington to address pressing regional issues, including the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

“I think the Kingdom is in a very advantageous position of having excellent ties with both parties,” Shihabi said on the Arab News current affairs program “Frankly Speaking” just days before American voters are due to go to the polls.

“Either option works out well for the Kingdom, which is quite a unique state of affairs really in situations like this.”




Combo image showing Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris (L) at a campaign rally in Reno, Nevada, on Oct.31, 2024, and former Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump (R) at a campaign rally in Allentown, Pennsylvania, on Oct. 29, 2024. (AFP)

Shihabi said Saudi Arabia may have historically leaned more toward the Republican Party, but the situation is different this time around, as in recent years the Kingdom’s relationship with the Democrats has vastly improved.

“Things have gone very well with the Democrats — not well early on, as everybody knows,” he added, referring to President Joe Biden’s threat to make Saudi Arabia “the pariah that they are” when he was campaigning for the presidency in 2019.

However, “the Ukraine-Russian war helped drive home the strategic importance of the Kingdom,” compelling the Biden administration to reassess its stance and to view Saudi Arabia as a stabilizing influence in the region, Shihabi said.

“Now, really, the relationship is as good as it could be at a deep institutional level,” he told “Frankly Speaking” host Katie Jensen. “And that would be expected to continue with a new Democratic administration.

“A new Democratic administration would be expected to carry on and adopt a lot of, if not all, the work that the previous Biden-Harris administration carried out. “At the same time, there’s a very warm relationship with Mr. Trump and the people around him. So it really works out well for the Kingdom either way. And that’s not a usual situation.

“Usually there has been a preference for Republicans, and ties have been closer under Republican administrations. But I think in this case it works out well, whoever wins.”




Ali Shihabi is an author and commentator on the politics and economics of Saudi Arabia. (AN photo by Abdulrahman bin Shalhoub)

Shihabi said recognition of the Kingdom’s strategic importance in the Middle East has established it as a key partner for Washington, regardless of which party is in power. 
Likewise, Saudi Arabia is looking to the US, no matter which candidate wins, to help resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The Kingdom has taken significant steps to advance the two-state solution, having launched a global coalition in September for this purpose. Shihabi believes US involvement is essential for any long-term success.

“America is an essential component and American pressure is an essential component,” he said. “Without the US, efforts to push Israel toward a meaningful solution may struggle to gain traction, given that Washington holds unique leverage over Israel.”

Shihabi said the attitude of the US toward Israeli actions will significantly impact the prospects for peace. “Unfortunately, the Biden administration wasn’t very strong or decisive with Israel,” he added, underscoring the need for firmer American resolve.

Just a few months ago, a historic US-Saudi security pact appeared to be imminent. At that time, bilateral relations appeared poised for a transformative agreement that could have included normalization with Israel.

However, the Oct. 7 Hamas attack that led to Israel’s invasion of Gaza is seen as having reshaped the political landscape, making such an agreement and Saudi-Israeli normalization unlikely in the near term. “It’s probably completely off the table for the time being, unless there’s a dramatic shift in the attitude of the Israeli government,” said Shihabi.

While a formal pact may be postponed, Shihabi believes the talks have already yielded closer security ties between the US and Saudi Arabia. “I think the discussions with America on that file have brought the Kingdom and America very close in sort of a de-facto security arrangement that isn’t a de-jure one yet,” he said.

Shihabi, who is an author and commentator on the politics and economics of Saudi Arabia, believes the next US administration — whether led by Trump or Harris — is likely to revisit the normalization talks. Indeed, both candidates have shown interest in brokering peace deals, and Saudi Arabia’s strategic importance in the Middle East ensures that these discussions will remain relevant.

However, Shihabi said much will depend on the next US administration’s willingness to press Israel toward meaningful concessions for the Palestinians. “The Israelis may be miscalculating if they think that Mr. Trump will be completely in their hands,” he said, hinting that the former president’s potential unpredictability could lead to renewed pressure on Israel if he returns to office.

“At the same time, the Harris administration will be inheriting a tremendous amount of work that the Harris-Biden administration carried out. So I think both parties will continue to pursue this file.”

During a recent roundtable with journalists ahead of last month’s BRICS Summit, Russian President Vladimir Putin said the US bore responsibility for the worsening Israeli-Palestinian conflict, attributing it to what he called American monopolization of the peace process.

Asked if Russia has enough leverage to deliver a miracle that the Middle East desperately needs, Shihabi said: “No. Unfortunately, I don’t think so.” He believes it is ultimately American pressure that has the greatest impact on Israel.

“Whether it’s part of the Quartet or whether it’s not part of the Quartet, it boils down to the backbone that an American president has in standing up to the Israelis,” he said, referring to the joint peace efforts of the US, UN, EU and Russia.

Shihabi cited past examples where US presidents exerted influence over Israel, such as when President Dwight D. Eisenhower forced Israel to withdraw from Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula in 1956, and when George H. W. Bush offered conditional loans in the 1990s.

While these instances are rare, Shihabi said, they demonstrate that US influence can shift Israeli policy when applied decisively. He remains skeptical that the current Israeli government, with its hardline stance, will make concessions without firm American intervention.

This challenge places considerable responsibility on Washington, as “the only party that has real muscle with Israel is America,” he said. “The problem is, sometimes it’s Israel that has muscle in America and not the other way around.

“The Israelis are very strong in America. They have a very strong lobbying operation. They exert enormous influence through a variety of means.

“It’s very rare that you get an American administration that takes out the stick to put the Israelis back into line. It may happen. I wouldn’t give it a huge amount of hope, but it’s not impossible.”

One of the more surprising developments of this election cycle is the shifting support of Arab-American voters, who according to a recent Arab News-YouGov poll are drawn by a 2 percent margin to Trump over Harris.

Shihabi said the finding likely reflects the voter group’s disillusionment with the current administration’s approach to Israel. “They’re confused, obviously, because the Biden administration has been very weak-kneed with the Israelis, and hasn’t been exerting enough influence or been adequately restraining them,” he added.

Despite Trump’s history of supporting Israel, Arab-American voters appear to believe he might take a stronger stance on the Palestinian issue if reelected. Shihabi believes this sentiment has something to do with Trump’s reputation as a dealmaker and his unpredictable approach to international affairs.




Ali Shihabi, an author and commentator on the politics and economics of Saudi Arabia, speaks with Frankly Speaking host Katie Jensen. (AN photo by Abdulrahman bin Shalhoub)

“There’s that sense among some people that Trump may surprise us because he’s a strong individual; he doesn’t like to be pushed around,” Shihabi said. “He’ll be in his final term, and he loves making deals, and he’d love to solve the Middle Eastern question.

“I think the Israelis may find that they don’t get what they exactly wished for if Mr. Trump wins … He may surprise us all.”

Arab Americans have shown particular concern for the situation in Gaza, with polls indicating the issue ranks higher in importance than domestic matters such as healthcare or the economy.

According to Shihabi, the focus on Gaza revealed by the survey is a reflection of the emotional and cultural impact the conflict has had on Arab-American voters. “There’s been such wanton criminality in the way that the Israelis have behaved, and such intense human suffering, that it’s affected them like it’s affected so many other people,” he said.

The potential influence of the Arab-American vote may come into play in swing states such as Michigan, where even a small margin could sway the outcome. “It’ll be very nice if the Arab-American vote ends up making an impact, either way, because that will show that the Arab Americans are beginning to develop some political muscle,” Shihabi said.

While it remains uncertain whether their votes will tip the scales, he added, the predicted increased voter turnout among Arab Americans indicates a growing political awareness and engagement within the community.

With the leads enjoyed by Harris and Trump in different polls still razor thin, Shihabi would not be drawn on who he thought will be the likely winner. “It’s a coin toss as to which one of them will win,” he said. “We’ll just have to wait.”
 

 


Saudi Arabia is preparing young footballers for World Cup 2034 squad, says federation president

Updated 52 min 5 sec ago
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Saudi Arabia is preparing young footballers for World Cup 2034 squad, says federation president

  • Contests for athletes under 6 being planned, says Yasser Al-Misehal
  • Aspiring Green Falcons players must ‘care’ about training, discipline

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia is preparing young footballers for the nation’s 2034 World Cup squad, according to the president of the Kingdom’s football association.

Answering a question from Arab News at a press conference on Wednesday following the announcement of the Kingdom as host, Saudi Arabian Football Federation President Yasser Al-Misehal highlighted the nation’s preparations for the 2034 Green Falcons side.

“My message to them that the dream we all had, to witness the World Cup in our country, has become a reality.

“My message to them is to be disciplined, to care about training, to care about all aspects of life, and we will hopefully see them in green in 2034 representing the team of the dearest country and achieving results that make us all proud as Saudis.”

In addition to under-17 tournaments, Al-Misehal said competitions are being held for under-11 players, and by 2027 for those under 6 years of age.

There are already several Saudi Arabia national team members playing for European clubs, including Saud Abdulhamid for Roma and Faisal Al-Ghamdi and Marwan Al-Sahafi for the Belgian team Beerschot.

Al-Misehal also spoke about the responsibility to deliver a successful event for the Kingdom’s football-loving population. “Today we are talking about more than 60 percent of the Saudi population being under 30 years old.

“A population that adores football … more than 80 percent of Saudis watch football daily. This places a great responsibility on us to present an edition that is suited to the ambitions of these audiences,” he said.

Al-Misehal added that the Kingdom had the support of more than 140 countries after announcing its intention to bid in October 2023.

“You feel the awe of the name of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. You feel hundreds of messages pouring in … from all over the world, congratulating the Kingdom … it is a proud feeling,” he said.

It has not yet been decided if the World Cup will be held in summer or winter. Al-Misehal said discussions with FIFA would hopefully be settled next year, but that “we are ready anywhere and at any time.”

Sports Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal, who is also president of the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee, said the Kingdom’s 18-section bid file had been six years in the making, with weekly meetings keeping track of every detail.

The country’s submission was uncontested after Australia dropped out of the running, but nonetheless received the highest-ever rating from FIFA.

“It’s an indescribable feeling, for us and for anyone, it is a dream to host the biggest event in the world, not just in sports,” Prince Abdulaziz said.

“This is indicative of the care of our wise leadership on this matter, on our athletes, and on developing sports in the Kingdom, as well as the determination of Saudi youth working in the Ministry of Sports, the Saudi Arabian Football Federation, the World Cup bid unit. I thank you.”

“We promise everyone that the work will continue,” Prince Abdulaziz added, referring to developments taking place in transport and tourism.

King Salman reportedly said: “Through its people’s determination and spirit the Kingdom has succeeded in consolidating its position as one of the most prominent international sports destinations.”

Saudi Arabia intends to make history as the first single country to host a 48-team tournament.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said in a statement: “We look forward to hosting an exceptional and unprecedented edition of the FIFA World Cup by harnessing our strengths and capabilities to bring joy to football fans around the world.”

Celebrations broke out across the Kingdom on Wednesday evening as the news broke.

The tournament’s 15 stadiums are in Riyadh, Jeddah, Abha, Alkhobar and NEOM.


Saudi Arabia lights up after being named as host for FIFA World Cup 2034

Updated 12 December 2024
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Saudi Arabia lights up after being named as host for FIFA World Cup 2034

  • Dazzling firework displays reflected the spirit of unity and excitement surrounding the country’s historic achievement
  • In celebration, dynamic drone shows are to captivate audiences in Riyadh, Jeddah, Alkhobar, and Abha

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia is celebrating being chosen as host of the FIFA World Cup 2034 with a series of events across the country.

The football-themed festivities, which run until Dec. 14, invite citizens and residents to showcase their national pride by wearing football jerseys and sharing their moments on social media using the hashtag #Saudi2034.

Fireworks illuminated the skies of Riyadh, Jeddah, Alkhobar, Abha, NEOM, Al-Qassim, and Jubail at 8:34 p.m. on Wednesday, after the official announcement from an online ceremony that was broadcast at a Riyadh event attended by Sports Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal and other officials.

The dazzling displays reflected the spirit of unity and excitement surrounding the country’s historic achievement.

In celebration, dynamic drone shows are to captivate audiences in Riyadh, Jeddah, Alkhobar, and Abha.

There will also be an air show in Riyadh on Dec. 12 over the skies of King Abdullah Financial District, King Fahd Stadium, and King Fahd Road.

Riyadh’s municipality handed out scarves to football fans in Tahlia Street, Takhassusi Street, and Prince Turki bin Abdulaziz Road, and organized events with traditional dances at various urban parks.

A number of institutions held watch parties at the time of the announcement ceremony, including the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology.

Parks and buildings were adorned with Saudi flags, while public spaces in a number of cities and regions were bathed in green light to mark the occasion.

A series of public gatherings will take place until Dec. 14 between 5:15 p.m. and 11 p.m. at Boulevard City, Laysen Valley, Roshn Front, and Bujairi Terrace in Riyadh; and the Corniche Circuit, Roshn Waterfront, Corniche Obhur, Prince Majid Park, King Abdulaziz Cultural Center, and the Municipality Building in Jeddah.

Elsewhere, celebrations will take place at the Corniche, Half Moon Beach, Tharwa Corniche, and King Abdullah Park in Alkhobar; and Beach District Plaza Al-Baha Mall, Al-Hawiya Walk, Boulevard, and the Winter Festival in Al-Baha; in Buraydah at Bukhari Street; and in Abha at Al-Bahar Square, Art Street, Veranda, Ariash, High City, and Midmac.

Hail will host gatherings on Dec. 13 from 5:15 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Al Fajr Walkway and Bahjah Park.

These activities offer football fans an opportunity to come together and share in the joyful atmosphere.


Saudi crown prince, Iraqi PM discuss regional developments during call 

Updated 12 December 2024
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Saudi crown prince, Iraqi PM discuss regional developments during call 

  • The call also tackled ways to enhance bilateral relations in all fields

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman received a phone call from Iraq’s Prime Minister Mohammed Al-Sudani, the Saudi Press Agency said early Thursday.

The pair discussed the latest regional developments and efforts aimed at achieving security and stability.

The call also tackled ways to enhance bilateral relations in all fields. 


Crown Prince congratulates King Salman on Saudi Arabia’s successful bid to host World Cup 2034

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman congratulated King Salman on Saudi Arabia’s successful FIFA World Cup 2034 bid. (File/SPA)
Updated 12 December 2024
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Crown Prince congratulates King Salman on Saudi Arabia’s successful bid to host World Cup 2034

  • The Crown Prince confirmed Saudi Arabia’s strong commitment to contribute to the development of football worldwide
  • Later on Wednesday, Prince Mohammed announced the establishment of the “Supreme Authority for Hosting the 2034 World Cup”

RIYADH: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman congratulated King Salman, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, on Saudi Arabia’s successful bid to host the FIFA World Cup 2034.

The Crown Prince confirmed Saudi Arabia’s strong commitment to contribute to the development of football sport worldwide and promoting messages of love, peace and tolerance.

He highlighted the Kingdom’s significant capabilities, the enthusiasm of the Saudi people, and their ability to overcome challenges, which ultimately led to their successful bid to host the World Cup 2034, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

On Wednesday, FIFA announced that Saudi Arabia will host the international football tournament in 2034.

Later on Wednesday, the crown prince announced the establishment of the “Supreme Authority for Hosting the 2034 World Cup.”

Setting up the authority showed the Kingdom’s determination to present an exceptional version of the tournament, SPA said.

Saudi Arabia became the first country in FIFA’s history to solely host the expanded format of the World Cup with 48 teams, featuring 16 additional football teams for the first time since Qatar’s World Cup 2022, SPA reported.

The US, Mexico and Canada will host the expanded format of World Cup 2026, while the 2030 event is set to take place in Morocco, Spain and Portugal.

In July, Saudi Arabia officially submitted its bid to host the World Cup 2034 under the slogan “Growing Together.”

The Kingdom will host the football matches in 15 stadiums across five cities, including Riyadh, Jeddah, Al-Khobar, Abha and Neom.

It also plans to host entertainment activities for World Cup fans in 10 sites, including King Salman Park and the Jeddah Waterfront Park.


Saudi Islamic affairs minister receives Maldives envoy in Riyadh

Updated 11 December 2024
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Saudi Islamic affairs minister receives Maldives envoy in Riyadh

Saudi Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance Abdullatif Al-Asheikh received Ambassador of Maldives to the Kingdom Ahmed Sareer in Riyadh on Wednesday.

Al-Asheikh focused on the Kingdom’s efforts in serving Islam and Muslims, spreading the values of tolerance and moderation and combating extremism in all its forms, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The ambassador praised Saudi Arabia’s commitment to catering to the needs of pilgrims and visitors to the Two Holy Mosques.